Louis Rees-Zammit joins Kansas City Chiefs as former Wales rugby star realises NFL dream

Louis Rees-Zammit has joined Super Bowl champions the Kansas City Chiefs.

After leaving rugby in January, Rees-Zammit impressed in the NFL's programme for international players. He's going to play as a running back and wide receiver. The Chiefs shared on their website, "The Kansas City Chiefs made an international splash on Friday with the addition of former European rugby star Louis Rees-Zammit to the roster."

This 23 year old visited several NFL franchises, such as the New York Jets, Cleveland Browns, and Denver Broncos. He said in a video the Chiefs put online that he had "just signed and can't wait to go". Now, Rees-Zammit is targeting a spot on the Chiefs' team for the new season. He hopes to play alongside superstars like Patrick Mahomes and Travis Kelce and as they look to win the Super Bowl for a third year in succession.

The ex-Wales star surprised everyone when he left rugby in January. His dream got closer after he caught the eye at special event last week for players from around the world. The Chiefs said: "Rees-Zammit participated in the international player pathway program workout earlier this month, which provided the former rugby star with an opportunity to show NFL scouts what he could do.

"His workout included a 4.44-second 40-yard dash, which would have ranked fifth among tailbacks at the 2024 NFL scouting combine."

The Chiefs have listed Rees-Zammit as a running back. This is important because two of their players, Clyde Edwards-Helaire and Jerick McKinnon, might not stay with the team. That means there might not be many players left for that position except for Isiah Pacheco who starts games.

Rees-Zammit's friend from his Wales rugby days, Josh Adams, posted on social media: "Trip to Kansas sorted